Set up an eSIM

Important: Some of these steps only work if your Fairphone has Android 13 or above. Learn how to Check and update your software version.

An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows your Fairphone to connect to your mobile network operator without having to use a physical SIM.

With an active SIM, you can make calls, send and receive SMS, and use mobile data.

 


Choose an eSIM

If you have a Fairphone 4 or above, your phone has one eSIM slot. Ask your network operator if they support eSIMs, and if they work on Fairphone.

To request an eSIM, you may need the EID number. You can find it in two places:

  • Printed on the box your Fairphone came in.
  • On your Fairphone, go to:
    SettingsAbout phoneSIM status (SIM slot 2) → EID.

 


Download and set up an eSIM

When you start your Fairphone for the first time, follow the on-screen instructions to guide you through the process.

To activate your eSIM after you set up your Fairphone, contact your network operator to get a QR code. Then, follow these steps:

  1. Go to Settings Network and Internet.
  2. Tap Mobile network.
    • If you already have a SIM installed, tap on the + next to your SIMs.
  3. Tap Download a SIM instead.
  4. Tap Next.
  5. Scan the QR code (provided by your network operator).
  6. Tap Activate.
  7. Enter the Operator confirmation code of your eSIM (provided by your network operator).
  8. If required, enter your SIM PIN (your network operator should provide this) and your Screen lock (the PIN, pattern or password you use to unlock your phone).
  9. Tap Done.

 


Delete an eSIM

You may need to delete your eSIM if you want to switch network operators or sell your phone.

To delete an eSIM, follow these steps:

  1. Go to SettingsNetwork and Internet.
  2. Tap on the SIM you want to delete.
  3. Tap Delete SIM.

 


Use Dual SIM

All of our phones support Dual SIM functionality. With Dual SIM, you can use two SIM cards at the same time. Allowing you to:

  • Have two phone numbers and two different plans on one device.
  • Use one number for business and another number for personal calls.
  • Get a local SIM plan while travelling abroad.

To manage your Dual SIM preferences, follow these steps:

  1. Go to Settings → Network and Internet → Tap on one of your networks.
  2. Set your preference for each network:
    • Data preference. Only one SIM can be the default for data.
    • Calls preference. Pick a default SIM or tap Ask every time.
    • SMS preference. Pick a default SIM or tap Ask every time.

Fairphone uses Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) technology. You can read more about that here.

 


Trouble setting up an eSIM?

If your eSIM isn't working, you can often fix it in just a few simple steps. Find out how: Troubleshoot the SIM Card(s).

 

Please note that we are closed on 18th April 2025 due to a public holiday in the Netherlands.

Due to a high volume of requests, we have limited our chat opening hours to assist as many customers as possible. If you have an open request, please know we are working hard to get back to you as quickly as we can. Thank you for your patience.